Bengals’ Fant Set to Play; Lions Eye McNeill’s Return Ahead of Matchup

CINCINNATI — Bengals tight end Irv Fant will play against the Detroit Lions on Sunday after missing one game due to a concussion. Coach Zac Taylor announced the news to reporters on Friday.

Fant was evaluated for a head injury sustained during Week 3 against the Baltimore Ravens. He did not return during the Bengals’ 48-10 loss and also missed the following game against the Denver Broncos.

This season, although he has only played in two full games, Fant ranks second on the team in receptions with 12, contributing to one of Cincinnati‘s five receiving touchdowns. Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase remains questionable for the game due to an Achilles injury. Rookie defensive end Myjai Sanders is also expected to miss his third consecutive game with an ankle injury, Taylor confirmed.

On the other side, the Detroit Lions are dealing with their own injury concerns ahead of facing the Bengals. Defensive tackle Alim McNeill, who tore his ACL in December 2024, is nearing a return. McNeill is eligible to play any time after his 21-day practice window opened, potentially as soon as Sunday. The team likely intends to wait to ensure a full recovery.

Lions head coach Dan Campbell noted, “It’s about getting his body back.” Meanwhile, the team is managing injuries to other players, including left tackle Taylor Decker, who is not at 100% but is expected to play.

Additionally, Lions linebacker James Houston is dealing with a knee issue but is on track to return. His situation is being closely monitored. Overall, both teams face significant injury updates as they prepare for their next challenge on the field.

The game will be critical for both sides, especially for the Bengals, who are struggling without their star quarterback Joe Burrow, who may be out for the season due to a toe ligament injury sustained in Week 2, as shown in the recent 28-3 loss to the Broncos.